kurang manis
/ˈkuraŋ ˈmanis/word by word
To say "less sugar" in Malay, use kurang manis.
Although kurang manis literally means "less sweet", it is the standard way to request that a drink or food item have less sugar in Malay.
Which one should you use?
While kurang manis translates to "less sweet", the phrase kurang gula is also used informally to mean "less sugar".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Peninsular Malaysia, kurang manis is the preferred informal way to say "less sugar".
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkuraŋ ˈmanis/
Did you know?
- If you want a drink with absolutely no sugar, you should use the phrase kosong, which literally means 'zero' or 'empty'.
- The word manis used in kurang manis is the same word used to describe a 'sweet' personality or a charming smile in Malay. It refers to an endearing quality rather than just a sugary taste.
- In Malaysia, requesting kurang manis often results in a drink that is still quite sweet by Western standards, as the base of many local drinks is condensed milk.
Examples in context
- Saya nak kopi kurangkan gula, boleh?I'd like coffee with less sugar, please.
- Tentu, encik. Kami akan sediakan kopi kurang manis untuk encik.Certainly, sir. We will prepare coffee with reduced sweetness for you.
- Saya nak teh tarik kurang manis.I want a teh tarik with less sugar.
- Boleh buatkan kopi saya kurang manis?Can you make my coffee less sweet?
Example conversation
Farah and Amir are ordering drinks at a cafe.
- FarahAmir, awak nak minum apa?Amir, what do you want to drink?
- AmirSaya nak jus oren kurang manis.I want an orange juice with less sugar.
- FarahSaya pun nak kurang manis juga.I also want mine with less sugar.
- AmirBaguslah, lebih sihat begitu.That's good, it's healthier that way.
